Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Published: September 16, 2025

by Olivia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: With only five minutes of prep time, this recipe allows you to enjoy a delicious drink without spending hours in the kitchen.
Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and cherries creates a rich and indulgent experience that satisfies any sweet tooth.
Perfect for Sharing: This recipe serves eight, making it great for parties or cozy get-togethers with friends and family.
Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it as a festive holiday drink or as an everyday treat; its comforting flavors make it suitable for any occasion.
Customizable Toppings: Top with whipped cream and extra cherries or experiment with other garnishes like chocolate shavings for added flair.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the correct equipment makes preparation straightforward and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Slow cooker
Mixing spoon
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It gently heats ingredients to bring out their flavors while allowing you to focus on other tasks.
Mixing spoon: A sturdy mixing spoon ensures all ingredients blend well together for consistent flavor throughout.
Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are vital for achieving the right balance of sweetness and chocolate richness.

Ingredients

For the Base

½ gallon whole milk
11 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips
12 oz. jar maraschino cherries (juice and all) (this is about 23 cherries and ¾ cup juice)

For Flavor Enhancement

⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ cup sugar

For Serving

whipped cream (canister is fine)
additional cherries for garnish

How to Make Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Add the whole milk, chocolate chips, the entire jar of maraschino cherries (with juice), cocoa powder, and sugar into your slow cooker.
Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 2: Heat the Mixture

Set your slow cooker to high heat.
Cook for about 2 hours. The high temperature helps enhance the cherry flavor.

Step 3: Serve Your Drink

After cooking, stir the mixture again.
Serve in mugs topped with whipped cream and additional cherries for garnish.

Enjoy your comforting cup of Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Serving this rich and creamy Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is all about enhancing the cozy experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will elevate your drink.

With Whipped Cream

Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess and sweetness.

Garnished with Cherries

Top each serving with additional maraschino cherries to echo the flavors in the hot chocolate.

Pairing with Cookies

Serve with chocolate chip or sugar cookies for a sweet treat that complements the drink.

In Fun Mugs

Use festive mugs to make each serving feel special—perfect for gatherings or family nights.

With a Sprinkle of Cocoa

Dust a little cocoa powder on top of the whipped cream for an added touch of flavor and decoration.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

To ensure your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Use Whole Milk: For the creamiest texture, stick with whole milk; it creates a rich base that enhances the flavor.
Choose Quality Chocolate Chips: Opt for semi-sweet chocolate chips made from real cocoa for better taste.
Stir Frequently: Stirring occasionally while cooking helps to prevent the chocolate from settling at the bottom.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter drink, feel free to add more sugar according to your taste.
Add More Cherries: For an even fruitier flavor, increase the number of maraschino cherries used in the recipe.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate can enhance your overall experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.

Chocolate Chip Cookies: These classic cookies provide a sweet balance to the rich hot chocolate.
Brownies: Fudgy brownies are perfect for dipping into the warm drink, adding a decadent touch.
Mini Muffins: Soft mini muffins can be a delightful accompaniment, especially banana or chocolate flavors.
Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers offer a refreshing contrast and brighten up the dessert table.
Marshmallow Treats: Rice cereal treats can be fun and chewy, making them perfect for pairing with hot drinks.
Cinnamon Rolls: Warm cinnamon rolls provide a comforting pastry option that pairs beautifully with hot chocolate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is easy, but a few common mistakes can ruin the experience.

Bold Flavor Overload: Using too many ingredients can overshadow the rich cherry and chocolate taste. Stick closely to the recipe for the best flavor balance.
Skipping the Stirring: Neglecting to stir your mixture can lead to uneven melting of the chocolate. Always stir well before serving to ensure a smooth texture.
Ignoring Cooking Time: Cooking for less than the recommended time may not fully develop the flavors. Follow the 2-hour cook time on HIGH for optimal results.
Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap chocolate chips might affect taste and texture. Invest in good quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for a richer hot chocolate.
Neglecting Garnishes: Skipping whipped cream or additional cherries can make your drink less enjoyable. These toppings enhance both flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Consume within 3–4 days for best taste.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Freeze in freezer-safe containers.
Best consumed within 1–2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe container until warm.
Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring between each, until hot.
Stovetop: Gently warm over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate.

Can I use other types of milk?

You can substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk for a lighter version. Just be aware that it may slightly change the flavor.

How do I make this Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate vegan?

To make it vegan, use plant-based milk and replace whipped cream with coconut whipped cream or a non-dairy alternative.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to enhance the flavor profile of your hot chocolate.

Can I adjust the sweetness?

Absolutely! You can reduce or increase sugar based on your preference. Taste as you go!

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chocolate Covered Cherry Hot Chocolate is an indulgent treat perfect for cozy nights. With its rich, creamy consistency and delightful cherry-chocolate blend, it’s sure to please everyone. Feel free to customize it by mixing in different flavors or garnishes to create your perfect cup.

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